If you drive on congested roads, you know that it can feel stressful to drive in traffic. Driving on roads with many other vehicles can also raise your risk of getting into a car accident.
If you get into a collision while driving in traffic, you could sustain injuries that impact your daily life. By following certain safety practices for driving in traffic, you can reduce your risk of getting into an accident and make your commute easier.
Stay alert and focused
Many drivers spend time in traffic and Forbes states that in 2022, U.S. drivers spent approximately 51 hours sitting in traffic. Remain attentive to your surroundings and avoid distractions while driving in traffic. Keep your eyes on the road ahead, check your mirrors regularly and anticipate potential hazards. Avoid using your phone or engaging in other activities that can take your attention away from driving.
Maintain a safe following distance
Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you to allow for adequate reaction time. The general rule is to maintain a following distance of at least three seconds, which provides ample space to stop or maneuver in case of sudden stops or emergencies.
Use turn signals and check blind spots
Signal your intentions early when changing lanes or making turns. Use your turn signals to indicate your movements and always check your blind spots before changing lanes to ensure there are no vehicles in your path.
Obey speed limits and traffic signs
Adhere to posted speed limits and obey traffic signs and signals. Speeding in heavy traffic increases the likelihood of accidents and reduces your ability to react to changing conditions.
Be patient and courteous
Practice patience and remain calm when driving in traffic. Avoid aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, weaving in and out of lanes or making sudden lane changes. Yield to other vehicles when necessary and allow merging traffic to enter smoothly.
While you can control your actions while driving in traffic, you do not have control over what other drivers do. If you sustained serious injuries in a car accident while driving on a congested roadway, take action to protect your legal rights.